Islamic Art is known for its richness, in both its colors and culture. This region underwent centuries of change and influence, and is displayed throughout the different works in the exhibit.
Sheila Canby, the Patti Cadby Birch Curator in Charge of the Department of Islamic Art, said: “Although our galleries represent a vast territory over a long period of time, the diverse artworks shown here are nonetheless unified in several distinctive ways. Primary among these is the extensive use of Arabic script, which resulted in exceptional examples of calligraphy—often in conventional media, such as metalwork or architectural elements—and virtuosic achievements in the arts of the book. A profound love of embellishment is often expressed through intricately interlaced, complex geometric forms that are most familiar to us in textiles, woodwork, and tilework. There are many examples of luxury materials, due to royal patronage. And technical expertise of the highest level is always evident, no matter what the medium. Because the objects in our galleries are primarily secular in nature, they can easily be appreciated both for their innate utility and for their astonishing beauty, whatever the viewer’s background may be.”
The most quintessential binding thread is that of the calligraphic tradition, where sacred verses of the Quran were transcribed to be written out on objects, architecture, and manuscripts. Another binding tradition is the presence of geometric forms, including interlocking stars and patterns which are expressed in a very diverse way, depending on geographic location.
There was also a special gallery dedicated to depicting the influence of the Western islamic tradition- exemplified through the works particular to Spain, Africa, and Northern Italy.
The Mihrab, one of the largest individual objects in the exhibit- an element in the Mosque which is known as a prayer area, where the direction of prayer is directed toward Mecca. It’s built up of mosaic tiles, in shades of blue and white, including Quranic inscriptions.
Mihrab, prayer room The Emperor’s Carpet
Artist: several unidentifiable artists
Title of Work: New Galleries for the Art of the Arab Lands, Turkey, Iran, Central Asia, and Later South Asia
Date of Work: 13 centuries, geographic region spans from Spain to South India
Materials/Medium: Paintings, mosaics, sculptures, jewelry
Curator: Navina Haidar
Genre: Islamic Art
Location: Metropolitan Museum of Art
I viewed this exhibit alone
